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Camp Boro

The demand for functional glass is growing exponentially, likewise the demand for skilled artisan lampworkers. Yet, there are remarkably few places that someone can go to learn how to make glass pipes outside of informal apprenticeships. Camp Boro aims to create the next generation of professional borosilicate glass pipe makers though student-driven classes emphasizing proper technique and marketability.

Start a new career in one of America’s fastest growing industries! Learn how to make borosilicate glass pipes in Massachusetts’ beautiful Pioneer Valley! Currently, I offer classes in three levels of experience: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced as well as Private Lessons.

*Prior to each class, I like to have a phone or email conversation with each student to discuss their goals and experience with glass. Advanced classes generally require a portfolio to enroll. See below for Rate Details and Lodging.

The Beginner Class.

Designed for people completely new to borosilicate glass and pipe making! No experience or equipment needed.

Some of the topics covered:

Setting up your glass station and shop.

Required tools and maintenance.

Working with gas and your torch.

Basic techniques and properties of solid and hollow glass.

Working with colors.

Proper annealing and kiln operation.

Making basic pipes shapes such as a spoon pipe as well as solid pieces like pendants.

Class is from Sunday to Saturday. Studio will be available to students before and after class each day!

Saturday: Open up the kiln and discuss the results. Open studio for the rest of the day.

6 people max! 2/3 person minimum. Small class size combines the individualized attention of a private lesson with the value and inspiration of a classroom environment.

By the end of this class, students will have to the knowledge to start making basic pipes with borosilicate glass.

The Intermediate Classes

Designed for students with some lampworking experience. Students should be able to make a basic spoon pipe reasonably well.

With this class, take your pipe making skills to a sellable level!

Some of the topics include:

Refining and embellishing your basic pipes – How to turn a 10$ spoon into a 20$ spoon with decoration.

Two section pipe construction.

Essential Welds and Joints.

Chug theory: how water & air moves in a water pipe – making a heavy hitter

Basic water pipe construction and designs

Troubleshooting and repair work – “It’s not just what you can make but what you can fix!”

Sales and the ‘industry’

Class is from Sunday to Saturday. Studio will be available to students before and after class each day!

Sunday Evening: Meet and Greet

Monday to Friday: Class time 10am – 5/6pm

Saturday: Open up the kilns and discuss the results. Open studio for the rest of the day.

5-6 people max! 2 person minimum. Small class size combines the individualized attention of a private lesson with the value and inspiration of a classroom environment.

By the end of this class, students will have firm grasp of the various styles of pipe construction and the knowledge to properly price their product for resale. This class prepares beginning lampworkers for a career in the pipe industry.

Advanced Classes.

Designed for an experienced or professional lampworker. Must present portfolio or website with prior work to enroll.

All advanced classes are structured and designed around the students on a class by class basis to maximize student benefit.

These classes are generally demo-style and incorporate an advanced technique or suite of techniques into the construction a heady glass pipe.

I also offer one-on-one classes. Duration and content are tailored to meet the student’s individual needs, goals and experience. Generally, private classes are centered around the construction of a specific type of piece or technique that the students wants to learn. If you are interested in private lessons, contact me for more information, details and rates.

Rate Details.
• At the time of registration, a deposit is required to secure your place in the class. This deposit is non-refundable but can be applied to a future class should cancellation become necessary.
• Payment in full is required by the first day of class.
• Payment in Cash, Money Order or Cashier’s Check.

Location and Lodging
All classes are held in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts. Hotels are available in Northampton, MA about 15 mins away. Other options include AirBnB and local campgrounds (within 20mins). Students are responsible for arranging room, board (breakfast and dinner) and transportation during their class. Rides to and from the studio can sometimes be arranged. Don’t hesitate to contact me with questions about lodgings and transportation. Northampton is a vibrant college town with many options for restaurants and bars.